The Ultimate 2025 Guide: 25+ Fast Food Restaurants Open On Thanksgiving Day (And Their Must-Know Holiday Hours)

The question of where to grab a quick, non-traditional bite on Thanksgiving Day is a perennial one for travelers, kitchen-disaster victims, and those simply looking for a break from turkey. As of December 2025, we've compiled the definitive, most up-to-date guide to the fast-food chains you can rely on for a meal on Thursday, November 27, 2025. While many sit-down establishments close their doors, a surprising number of major fast-food and quick-service restaurants remain open, though often operating with significantly modified hours due to the holiday.

The crucial detail to remember for Thanksgiving 2025 is that nearly all major fast-food chains are heavily franchised, meaning the decision to open or close, and the exact operating hours, rests with the individual owner/operator. This guide provides a strong probability list, but you should always confirm with your specific local restaurant location before heading out to avoid disappointment on a day when options are already limited. Plan your holiday travel pit stops and last-minute meal needs now!

The 2025 Fast Food Thanksgiving Roll Call: Who's Open?

This list is based on established patterns from previous years (2024 and 2023) and early announcements for the 2025 holiday season. The vast majority of these chains will have at least some locations open nationwide.

• Shania Twains Bold Statement Why The Star Chose Nude Photoshoots At 57 Qf9cg

The Fast Food Giants (Highest Probability of Being Open)

These are the chains with a high percentage of franchised locations that traditionally remain open, often with reduced or limited service.

• McDonald's: A significant number of McDonald's locations are open on Thanksgiving Day, often due to their 24/7 or high-traffic locations (e.g., near highways or airports). Expect to find a Big Mac or McNuggets, but call ahead for specific breakfast/lunch/dinner hours.
• Burger King: Similarly, many Burger King outlets will be serving Whoppers. Their policy is generally to allow franchisees to decide, making them a reliable option.
• Wendy's: Most Wendy's locations are expected to be open, though likely with shorter business hours than a typical weekday. Frosty cravings are safe.
• Taco Bell: A large percentage of Taco Bell locations will be open, offering a late-night or mid-day crunch. Hours will definitely vary, so check the app or website.
• Arby's: Known for their roast beef, many Arby's locations will be operating, providing an alternative to turkey.

Coffee, Donuts, and Breakfast Chains (Early Risers)

If you're traveling early or just need that crucial caffeine fix, these breakfast-focused chains are your best bet. They often open very early on the holiday.

• Dunkin': Dunkin' is one of the most reliable options, with a majority of locations open to serve coffee and donuts for early morning holiday travelers.
• Starbucks: Many company-owned and licensed Starbucks stores will be open. Their holiday hours can be unpredictable, but finding a seasonal latte is usually possible.
• Waffle House: The legendary Waffle House is famous for being open 24/7, 365 days a year, including Thanksgiving. They are a near-guarantee.
• IHOP and Denny's: While technically more of a casual dining restaurant, these breakfast powerhouses are almost always open all day and night on Thanksgiving, often serving special holiday menus.

The Unexpected Thanksgiving Heroes: Chains with Special Offerings

Some fast-food and quick-service restaurants go beyond their standard menu, offering Thanksgiving specials or holiday-themed items that can even replace your main meal. These chains are essential for those who want a taste of the holiday without the hours of cooking.

• The Chilling True Story 5 Key Facts About Richard Evonitz The Serial Killer Who Kidnapped Kara Robinson Chamberlain Xpjje

The Turkey & Holiday Flavor Specialists

• Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen: Popeyes is famous for its Cajun-Style Turkey, which must be pre-ordered and picked up before Thanksgiving, but some locations may be open for regular menu items on the day itself.
• Wawa: This convenience store chain (mostly on the East Coast) is known for its "Gobbler" sandwich, which features turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce. Wawa locations are typically open 24/7.
• Firehouse Subs: They often feature a Thanksgiving Turkey Sub that captures the holiday flavors. Many locations will be open for takeout.
• Boston Market: While not strictly fast food, Boston Market is a reliable source for a full, pre-cooked Thanksgiving meal, and many locations are open for pickup or dine-in.
• Cracker Barrel: A classic holiday stop. Cracker Barrel is open on Thanksgiving and serves a traditional Homestyle Thanksgiving Meal, making it a favorite for travelers.

Other Reliable Quick-Service Options

These chains also have a history of keeping their doors open for customers on the holiday.

• Subway: Due to their franchised nature, many Subway locations remain open, especially those in travel centers or retail areas.
• Sonic Drive-In: A good number of Sonic locations are open, providing a fun drive-in option for a holiday meal.
• White Castle: Known for their sliders, White Castle is another chain that often operates all day on Thanksgiving.
• Bojangles: Primarily in the Southeast, many Bojangles locations are open for their famous chicken and biscuits.
• Jack in the Box: A strong West Coast presence, many of these locations will be open.
• Del Taco: Another reliable option for those craving Mexican-inspired fast food on the holiday.

Essential Tips for Fast Food on Thanksgiving 2025

Navigating the holiday restaurant scene requires a strategic approach. The most important factor to remember is that "open" doesn't mean "normal hours."

1. Always Call Ahead (The Golden Rule)

The single most important piece of advice is to call the specific location you plan to visit. The vast majority of fast-food chains are run by individual franchisees who set their own Thanksgiving staffing schedule and hours. A corporate website or app may say "open," but your local store might be closed. This is especially true for chains like McDonald's, Burger King, and Dunkin'.

• The Facts Of Life Cast Where Are Eastlands Girls Now 2024 Updates 2tx8p

2. Expect Modified Hours and Limited Menus

Even if a restaurant is open, expect reduced hours of operation. Many will close early (e.g., 2:00 PM or 3:00 PM) to allow staff to spend the evening with family. Additionally, some locations may run a limited menu to simplify operations for the smaller holiday staff. Don't count on finding every single menu item.

3. Look Beyond the Fast Food

If you're traveling or need more than a burger, look for casual dining chains that traditionally stay open. These often offer a more substantial, holiday-appropriate meal. Reliable casual dining options include:

• Applebee's
• Buca di Beppo
• Chili's
• Golden Corral
• Maggiano's Little Italy

4. The Importance of Drive-Thru vs. Dine-In

Many fast-food locations that are open on Thanksgiving may only operate their drive-thru service. If you are planning to dine in, explicitly ask when you call ahead. Indoor seating may be closed even if the kitchen is running. This is a common practice to minimize staffing needs on the holiday.

Whether you're dealing with a burnt turkey, an emergency travel day snack stop, or simply prefer a quick, no-fuss meal, there are plenty of fast-food options available on Thanksgiving Day 2025. Just remember the mantra: Plan ahead, call your local spot, and be thankful for the dedicated staff working the holiday shift!